Mary, for me it depends on the piece. In general, I agree. Wait until you have a substantial chunk. But sometimes it comes together for me bit by bit as I keep going back to it and keep making adjustments. I find my process varies a lot from day to day, but as long as it keeps moving me forward, I’m okay with that.

I so agree, Tatjana. It’s an intangible quality that improves with time as long as one diligently works on her craft.

I guess it could be a risk for some, Caroline, although I find once my mind is whirling on a piece, I’m still working on it in my head while I’m doing the laundry or making that tea.

Pooja, I like the idea of writing your way into the writing. So often I lob off the first paragraph when I go back to a piece because I find it to be unnecessary.

A mish-mash of emotions is right. Love the concept of a writer’s tantrum, Kate!

I started a blog recently which I hope is going to help me (and others) with the down swings. By writing about the creative process and about books and other creative endeavors I get a clearer picture of my own understanding of projects, which in turn helps me to take a more objective view of my activities.

It’s not easy though.